Highlights:
God calls the young man the prophet (II Kin. 9:4) to anoint Jehu king of Israel. Jehu kills Joram and Ahaziah. Prophecy of Jezebel's death is fulfilled and Baal worshipers executed. Jehu's 28-year reign ends (10:34-36).
After Ahab's death, his son Ahaziah reigned over Israel for two years, followed by the 12-year reign of another son, Jehoram (known also as Joram). Due to the influence of their wicked mother Jezebel, these two kings zealously promoted Baal worship. Baal worship became popular in Judah due to its king, Jehoram, who had married Jezebel's daughter Athaliah. Their son, also named Ahaziah, was a wicked king.
During this time of spiritual decline, the Lord selected Jehu, the military commander of Israel's armies, as His instrument of judgment and king of Israel as God had earlier revealed to Elijah (I Kin. 19:16). Perhaps 20 years passed before the Lord directed Elisha to send a young prophet to Ramoth-gilead, where Jehu was stationed with his army. The prophet anointed Jehu as king of Israel and the God-appointed executioner of Jehoram and all the descendants of Ahab (II Kin. 9:6-7).
Jehu drove his chariot furiously (9:20) to Jezreel where he executed Joram (Jehoram), and then Ahaziah, king of Judah. Then Jehu had Jezebel thrown out of a window and he trampled her with his horse. And the dogs ate her body (9:33-37). It was the canine feast in that location (the field of Naboth) as foretold, fulfilling the Word of God by Elijah against Ahab (I Kin. 21:19-23).
The violent and untimely deaths of Jezebel, King Ahab, and King Jehoram confirm the limitation of earthly power. Many have died prematurely because of disobedience to God.
Jehu zealously executed all the family of Ahab in Samaria (I Kin. 21:17-24). However, Athaliah, as queen of Judah, promoted Baal worship. Jehu had bragged to Jehonadab: Come with me, and see my zeal for the Lord (II Kin. 10:16). But he did not execute Athaliah. Jehu's zeal for the Lord was just enough to achieve his own selfish ends. Jehu took no heed to walk in the Law of the Lord God of Israel with all his heart . . . he departed not from the sins of Jeroboam, which made Israel to sin (10:31). It is possible for one to be used by God and yet never be in submission to Christ as Lord of one's life. How sad to be so near to and yet so far from eternal reward. This is the will of God . . . That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel (control his body) in sanctification and honour. . . . For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness (I Thess. 4:3-4,7).
Thought for Today:
Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God (Rom. 12:2).
Christ Portrayed:
By Elisha who sent one of the sons of the prophets with oil to anoint Jehu (II Kin. 9:1-6). Oil symbolizes the Holy Spirit, and the Lord sent the Holy Spirit to anoint believers (John 14:16-17; 16:13; Acts 1:8; compare I Sam. 16:13). The anointing which ye have received of Him abideth (lives) in you (I John 2:27).
Word Studies:
9:23 treachery =b> treason; 9:30 tired her head =b> adorned her hair; 10:3 Look even out the best and meetest =b> Select the most capable; 10:27 draught house =b> public toilet.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Naomi R. Peyton • Staff: Al Joslyn • Country: Hong Kong (7 million) in eastern Asia • Major languages: Chinese and English • Limited religious freedom • 90% Chinese religions; 10% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Trust in God and offer up your prayers night and day (I Tim. 5:5).
Optional Reading: Romans 7
Memory Verse for the Week: John 1:3